Our furniture is carefully restored in China, using traditional techniques.
Most of the time, we make sure that they keep their patina. However, Chinese furniture are sometimes re-lacquered, in order to regain their incomparably silky mirror-like appearance.
- Mortises and carved joints that fit one another remain visible, which is a guarantee of authenticity.
- Joining lines may appear more or less, according to seasonal and humidity changes..
- Many Chinese antiques were designed with "floating" panels, which allows the vivid wood to contract without breaking. However, the lacquer does not live like wood, and cracks may appear!
What should you take care about, to preserve beauty of a chinese piece of furniture?
How to prevent cracking over time ?
Rule N°1: Avoid putting your Chinese antiques close to heat sources (such as radiators, open fires, powerful spotlights) - which is also valid for all wooden furniture. To prevent wood from retracting, a simple solution is to keep a cup full of water inside a cabinet or drawer - do not forget to renew it regularly..
Rule N°2: Never use synthetic cleaning products, such as "Pledge", which clog the lacquer and make rings. How to take care and polish it ? If your furniture is dull, clogged over time or improper treatment, we advise you to use a specific wood product, such as Libéron, Lakeone, or Frères Nordin brands.
However, be careful with marquetry furniture or inlaid with mother-of-pearl, bone, stone, etc., which require a skilled craftsman. Apply the product with a cotton wick, making small circular movements. We advise you to proceed on small surfaces first, progressing regularly until the entire tray or panel - for example - is treated.
To soften the lacquer, we advise you to treat your furniture with a paste wax from time to time - once or twice a year. A fine tinted wax will do wonders. Apply, let dry well, and polish with a soft cloth.